Although 77 individuals were registered online, we estimate at least 100, probably closer to 120, individuals attended the event; some came from afar including Long Island, Fairfield County, Haddam, CT, and Waterford, CT.

A proclamation signed by Hamden Mayor Curt Leng declaring the Hamden National Drive Electric Week, 8–16 September 2018, was presented at the event.

photo by: Robert LangdonGuest and EV Owners discuss their vehicles near a historic red barn. Hamden, Connecticut, September 8, 2018.

Event Description

"Electrify Your Drive!"

A Free EV Car Show and Information Session

Electric vehicle (EV) drivers and enthusiasts, the Town of Hamden, and the Hamden Energy Use and Climate Change Commission are hosting an educational event about electric vehicles for all interested people to highlight the clean-air and cost-savings advantages of these now widely available vehicles. Experienced EV owners will show their EVs and will discuss why they like their electric vehicles and how they use them on their daily commutes and longer distance drives, as well as how they charge the cars’ batteries.

Participants will learn about the differences between electric vehicles and conventional gas-powered cars (including why electric vehicles are much less expensive to operate and maintain), the widespread locations and different types of charging stations in Connecticut, the wide range of EV models available now, and the benefits of electric vehicles for the environment and for public health. We will have two Question-and-Answer sessions with a panel of EV owner/drivers, EV experts from local auto dealers, and Town of Hamden environmental officials.

Attendees will also learn about special savings programs for Connecticut EV drivers, including state rebates, federal tax credits, and low-interest loans from the Connecticut Green Bank for purchasing and leasing electric vehicles.

Plug-in vehicles by Nissan, Chevrolet, Toyota, Honda, Mercedes, BMW and other automakers will be displayed and some will be available for test ride-and-drives. Mayor Curt Leng will present a proclamation naming September 8–15 Hamden Drive Electric Week.